How much should I charge for a website as a beginner?
Price based on scope
Start by listing what the client needs, including the number of pages, design requirements, content help, forms, online sales and the number of revisions. A simple brochure site takes far less time than a store with product uploads and payment setup, so the price should reflect that difference.
Estimate how many hours the work takes, including planning and client communication. Beginners often underestimate the time involved, so add a buffer before you set a number.
- Count pages, features and revisions before you quote
- Track your hours on the first few projects
- Explain whether domain and hosting costs are included or billed separately
- Offer a fixed-price package for simple sites
Ways to structure your fees
Many freelancers charge a one-time build fee plus a monthly or yearly fee for hosting, maintenance and small updates. Separating these makes it clear what the client is paying for and keeps the build fee from covering ongoing work.
Ask for a deposit before you start, often a portion of the total, and agree on a number of revisions in writing. A written scope keeps the project from growing without a matching increase in pay.
Common mistakes
- Quoting a price without a written scope, which often leads to unpaid extra revisions.
- Undercharging so much that the work is not sustainable for the time it takes.
